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Growing Mushroom Yellow Peppers in the Vegetable Garden

Begin by sowing Jamaican Yellow Mushroom pepper seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before your area's last expected frost date. Plant the seeds about 0.25 inch deep in a damp, sterile seed-starting mix to prevent damping-off disease. Maintain a consistent soil temperature between 65 F and 85 F, using a heat mat if necessary, to encourage germination, which typically occurs within 7 to 14 days. Provide ample light using grow lights positioned close to the seedlings to prevent leggy growth.​

Once seedlings develop their second or third set of true leaves, usually around 3 to 4 weeks after germination, transplant them into larger pots to accommodate root growth. Continue to provide sufficient light and maintain indoor temperatures until outdoor conditions are suitable.​

Before moving plants outdoors, harden them off over a period of 1 to 3 weeks. Start by placing the seedlings outside in a sheltered location for an hour, gradually increasing their exposure to sunlight and outdoor conditions each day. This process helps the plants acclimate and reduces transplant shock.​

Transplant the hardened-off seedlings into the garden, raised beds, or containers once nighttime temperatures consistently stay above 50 F and the risk of frost has passed. Choose a location with full sun exposure and well-draining soil. Space plants 12 to 24 inches apart to allow for adequate air circulation. Ensure the soil is rich in organic matter and has a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.​

Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry, aiming to soak the soil to a depth of 6 inches. Avoid overhead watering to minimize the risk of fungal diseases.​ Once plants are established, apply a low-nitrogen fertilizer every 2 to 3 weeks to promote fruit development without excessive foliage growth.

Harvesting Mushroom Yellow Peppers

The peppers mature from green to a bright yellow hue. Harvest when they reach full color and size, usually about 1 to 2 inches in diameter. Use scissors or pruning shears to cut the peppers from the plant, leaving a small stem attached. Regular harvesting encourages continued fruit production.

About Mushroom Yellow Pepper Garden Seeds

These hot peppers are a staple in Caribbean cuisine, particularly in jerk seasoning and hot sauces. Their fruity, citrusy flavor complements meats, stews, and salsas.

Due to their heat, it's advisable to wear gloves when handling and to use them sparingly in recipes.

While its exact breeding history is not well-documented, it is considered an heirloom variety, passed down through generations of Caribbean gardeners and cooks.

Choose a pot at least 12 inches in diameter with adequate drainage holes. Container-grown plants may require more frequent watering and fertilization but offer the advantage of mobility, allowing gardeners to move plants to optimal sun exposure or protect them from adverse weather.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"Don’t get this pepper mixed up with the Red Mushroom Pepper. They may be named similarly and have similar visual characteristics, but the Yellow Mushroom pepper is 4-8 times spicier than the Red variety!"

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer